Whew! I made it! I love teaching...it's the best, but I'm tired. I am sitting at home this morning on my first day of holiday break with so much to do to get ready for the holidays, but I'm paralyzed by exhaustion. After my second cup of coffee, I bundled up, grabbed my dog and headed out for a much needed walk to think about how I was going to rest, reflect, and recharge this holiday season.

Rest. This is a serious struggle for me. My mind doesn't stop. I am continuously contemplating, worrying, and planning. This break I am going to commit to resting with no guilt. Binge watch TV. Bake. Read. Sleep in. Play games. Do nothing. Easier said than done for me, but I need it. My family, students, and colleagues need me. I owe it to them to be the best me I can be. I can't be that without taking the time to really rest without guilt.

Reflect. Okay, so this is a struggle for me too. I don't reflect enough. Even knowing how valuable it is, I have never been good about reflecting in any form consistently. I love the idea of blogging, but I tend to worry too much about my words being profound or eloquent or people thinking I'm flat out crazy. A friend recently told me to think of it as documenting my journey. It doesn't have to be fabulous or resonate with everyone, just get my thoughts out there. I need to do this for me and if it inspires others than that is a bonus!

RechargeI want to go back to school in January recharged and ready to take on the new year. I plan to draw on the energy of my friends and family this holiday season. I want to be present and truly savor every moment spent with them. I want to do more things that inspire me: read, play games, laugh with my family, connect with my PLN, and go to coffee with friends.

Tisha! Fabulous post! I really appreciate the words that come from your heart and your willingness to put yourself out there! Great job! This post inspires me and I am so thankful to have you in my PLN! I love your goals for the break and I think you are spot on! Have an awesome break unplugging and taking time for you!

The immune system of the body is the immune element that blocks the virus attack on the body. At the time of natural sleep will be produced hormone meletonin as an antioxidant that ward off disease seeds and free radicals. Melatonin will be optimally produced by the body during dark light so, turn off the lights during sleep to increase hormone production.